Investigation of the Mechanisms of the Gut-brain Axis in Binge Eating and Obesity.
Launched by UNIVERSIDADE DO PORTO · Feb 6, 2025
Trial Information
Current as of June 26, 2025
Not yet recruiting
Keywords
ClinConnect Summary
This clinical trial is studying a condition called Binge Eating Disorder (BED), where individuals frequently eat large amounts of food and feel a loss of control during these episodes. The trial aims to understand how a connection between the gut and the brain, known as the gut-brain axis, might influence binge eating and obesity. Researchers are particularly interested in a potential treatment called psychobiotics, which are special supplements that can help balance the bacteria in the gut and may improve symptoms of BED. By comparing participants taking these supplements to those receiving a placebo (a look-alike pill with no active ingredients), the study hopes to find out if psychobiotics can help reduce binge eating and support better eating habits.
To participate in this study, you need to be an adult living in Portugal with a history of BED, and there are specific criteria regarding weight and health conditions. Participants will take either the psychobiotic supplement or a placebo daily for 12 weeks and will undergo various assessments, including tests on gut bacteria, hormones, and psychological factors related to eating. After completing the trial, follow-up visits will occur three months later to see how symptoms have changed. This research is important as it may lead to new ways to help people struggling with BED and improve their overall well-being.
Gender
ALL
Eligibility criteria
- Inclusion Criteria:
- • Portuguese adults (25 with normal weight; 25 with obesity only (30 ≤ BMI \< 40) and BED; 54 with BED)
- • Residents in Portugal for the past 10 years
- Exclusion Criteria:
- • Significant weight loss (\>5% of body weight) in the past 2 years
- • Antibiotic use in the past 6 months
- • History of surgery or medical/psychiatric diseases
- • Pregnant or breastfeeding
- • History of drug use or dependence
- • Use of medications that impact weight
- • Have metal implants or pacemakers
About Universidade Do Porto
The Universidade do Porto, one of Portugal's leading academic institutions, is dedicated to advancing medical research and innovation through its clinical trial sponsorship. With a robust framework for interdisciplinary collaboration, the university fosters an environment that encourages the exploration of cutting-edge therapies and healthcare solutions. Leveraging its extensive network of researchers, clinical practitioners, and state-of-the-art facilities, the Universidade do Porto is committed to conducting high-quality, ethical clinical trials aimed at improving patient outcomes and contributing to the global body of medical knowledge.
Contacts
Jennifer Cobb
Immunology at National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Locations
Porto, Paranhos, Portugal
Patients applied
Trial Officials
Eva M. Conceição
Principal Investigator
Center for Psychology at University of Porto (CPUP)
Clarisse N. Salomé
Principal Investigator
Center for Engineering Biological (CEB) at University of Minho
Timeline
First submit
Trial launched
Trial updated
Estimated completion
Not reported